How to Decorate Cookies with Fondant and Silicone Moulds

Silicone moulds make it easy to add detailed fondant decorations to cookies, like flowers, bows, lace or little characters, without needing to sculpt anything by hand. Here’s how to get clean, crisp shapes every time.

What You’ll Need

• Silicone moulds in the shapes you want.
• Fondant that’s soft and easy to work with.
• Cornflour to stop fondant sticking in the mould.
• A rolling pin and cookie cutters for the fondant base.
• Edible glue or water to attach the decorations.
• A soft brush to remove extra cornflour.

Step 1: Prepare the Fondant

Fondant should be soft, smooth and at room temperature before you start.

• Knead it for a few minutes until smooth.
• If it’s dry or cracking, knead in a little shortening or glycerine.
• If it’s too sticky, leave it uncovered for a few minutes first.

Step 2: Use the Mould

1. Lightly dust the mould with cornflour.
2. Press the fondant firmly and evenly into the mould.
3. Scrape away any excess fondant so the back is flat.
4. Gently flex the mould to release the shape.
5. If it sticks, add a little more cornflour and try again.

Tip: For delicate designs, pop the filled mould in the freezer for about 5 minutes before releasing. The fondant firms up, so the details stay sharp and the shape doesn’t stretch.

For really tiny details, finger press moulds are made for exactly that.

Step 3: Attach the Decorations

• Edible glue: The strongest hold for fondant on fondant.
• Water: Works well, but use it sparingly or the fondant will dissolve.
• Royal icing: Good for heavier decorations.

Tip: If your cookie has a fondant base, let it set for at least 30 minutes before adding decorations so nothing shifts.

A Few More Tips

• Brush away extra cornflour with a soft, dry brush.
• Colour white fondant with gel colours for custom shades.
• Dust finished pieces with lustre for a bit of shimmer.
• Let decorations firm up slightly before handling so you don’t leave fingerprints.
• Store finished cookies in an airtight container, away from moisture.

The Short Version

• Knead fondant until soft and smooth.
• Dust the mould lightly with cornflour.
• Press in firmly, scrape the back flat, and freeze briefly for delicate shapes.
• Attach with a little edible glue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does fondant stick in my silicone mould?

Usually the mould needs a light dusting of cornflour, or the fondant is too soft. Freezing the filled mould for a few minutes also helps it release cleanly.

What’s the best way to stick fondant decorations to cookies?

Edible glue gives the strongest hold. Water works too, but only a little, or it will dissolve the fondant.

Related reads: Essential Tips for Working with Fondant · Understanding Our Cookie Stamp Styles